Lily Bly's Blog

Interview with Tena Stetler, author of A MAGIC REDEMPTION #spicy #romance #paranormal

Thanks for visiting with me on The Daisy, Tena! Let’s get to know you. Then we’ll take a look at your new book from The Wild Rose Press, A Magic Redemption (A Demon’s Witch Series Book 5).

When did you begin your writer’s journey?

While I’ve written since I was a child and could put pencil to paper,  2015 was the beginning of my journey as a published author. A Demon’s Witch was my debut novel.

How did the idea for this book occur to you?

A Magic Redemption has been in the process for quite some time. Synn the Heroine of the book has wandered in and out of most of the books in A Demon’s Witch Series. 

I always knew I’d have to tell Synn’s story, but had to wait until all the pieces fell into place from the other books in the series. I’m super excited to share her incredible adventure and heart-warming story with you now. I certainly hope you enjoy reading A Magic Redemption as much as I did writing Synn’s tale.

Is this book part of a series? If so, what can we expect in the future? 

 A Magic Redemption is book five in A Demon’s Witch Series. I thought I was finished with the series, but as seems to happen more often than not, my characters unceremoniously informed me that I was wrong. Again. There will be a book six bringing Gale and Dillon’s story to life in the future.

What’s your favorite scene in the book and why?

When Synn rescues the puppy, Storm.  Synn struggles with finding her own way in the world, yet saving this tiny puppy brings meaning, understanding, and what it means to have unconditional love to her world.

What drives you to write? 

The voices in my head. They won’t be quiet until their story is written.

What are your hopes and dreams for your writing future?

To be the best writer that I can be. For my books whisk readers from their everyday lives into a romantic fantasy adventure if only for a few hours. Of course like all authors, I’d love to make the New York Time’s best seller list. Oh yeah and have my books make into movies.  Pretty lofty goals, huh? LOL

Do you have an established writing routine, or do you write as inspiration happens?

My day begins with two hours of promo and social media then onto the work in progress or editing for six hours. I try to take weekends off to spend with family and friends.

What do you do when you’re not writing?

Hiking, kayaking, camping with my hubby. I also spend time in the sunroom with my parrot, Taco, and take my dog, Mystic, for a walk. Our walks relax me and help work out elements in my story that are giving me problems.

Would you describe yourself as an introvert or extrovert?

Extrovert. I love talking to people. The hardest part of being a full time author, is being alone most of the work day. Of course, I have my dog and parrot to talk to and they are great listeners. My parrot is very opinionated and doesn’t hesitate to tell me what she thinks. LOL

What can we expect from you in the future?

I’ll have a new book out early summer, MYSTIC MAPLES, it’s part of the Deerbourne Inn Series. It’s a paranormal romance with elements of time-travel and mystery. I’m also working on the sequel to Charm Me (2016 Candy Hearts novel) and hope to have it out by the end of 2019.  Book three in A Witch’s Journey Series and book six in A Demon’s Witch Series are also on the horizon. Audio books for A Vampire’s Unlikely Alliance, An Angel’s Unintentional Entanglement and A Magic Redemption area also in the pipeline and I can’t wait for everyone to hear them. 

Mystic & Taco

Tena’s fur & feather babies :-)

Thanks for joining me today, Tena. Best of luck with A Magic Redemption!

A little more about Tena…Tena Stetler is a best-selling author of award winning paranormal romance with an over-active imagination.  Colorado is home; shared with her husband, a brilliant Chow Chow, a spoiled parrot and a forty-five-year-old box turtle. Her books tell tales of magical kick-ass women and mystical alpha males that dare to love them. Travel, adventure and a bit of mystery flourish in her books along with a few companion animals to round out the tales.

(ARE YOU STALKING TENA? YOU SHOULD BE!)

GO FIND HER:

Website // Authors’ Secret’s Blog // My Say What Blog

Facebook // Twitter // Goodreads

Amazon // Newsletter

Pinterest // Triberr // Bookbub

Instagram // BookGorilla // Google+

A Magic Redemptionby Tena Stetler-now available-Synn, a demon, carries extraordinary magic and power, but there is more within her than she dreams. Kidnapped as a child, her captors murdered her family and forced her into training as a warrior assassin. When an assignment goes horribly wrong, she finds herself at the mercy of the friends and family of her intended target.  Offering valuable information in exchange for protection, she gains her freedom, but it is not without its challenges.Gavin Shaughnessy is the publican at his family’s Irish pub.  He is certain Synn is meant to be his and isn’t bothered by her past.  He must find a way to convince her, their future together is stronger than the dark memories that haunt her dreams.When her past comes calling for revenge, will their love survive the raging inferno she brings down upon them? Or will the searing path of destruction destroy all they hold dear?

Excerpt:

The road to her cottage took them by the pub. He didn’t want to spoil a great day by stopping by Shaughnessy’s. But he had a nagging feeling that was exactly what he was supposed to do. Prior experience taught him nothing but trouble would come if he ignored his gut. “Mind if we stop by the pub on the way home. Storm can stay in the truck for a few minutes. I want to make sure—”

“Everything is all right?”

“Of course it’s all right. I’ve taken time off before.” Gavin bristled. “I had a life before—” He stopped mid-sentence. No way was he going to spoil this day.

She shifted in her seat to face him. “Before what? Me? Before your sister married an assassin? Or Brandy became engaged to a vampire? Before your world came crashing down amid demons, vampires, witches, and world ending shit?” She paused, closed her eyes, and leaned her head against the seat again. “I didn’t mean that. I’ve been on edge since the dream—nightmare—premonition. Call it what you want. Today was a nice reprieve. But when we hit the edge of town—what’d you call ’em—” she tapped her temple. “My spidey senses went off.” She shivered.

He turned on the street behind the pub. The parking lot was full to running over. Weaving through the cars without finding a space, he pulled back onto the road. After circling the block, he parked down the street and cut the engine. “Stay put for a sec.” Gavin stepped out of the truck and surveyed the area. Nothing seemed out of place or unusual. 

A slow creak indicated Synn had opened her door. “Stay girl. We’ll be back.” She eased the door closed.

He strode to her side and glared down at her but said nothing. Not looking for a fight.Slipping an arm around her waist, they strolled to front of the pub. He yanked open the heavy wooden door. Friendly voices, raucous laughter, and the yeasty scent of the pub spilled out. Tension eased in his muscles. He released the breath he hadn’t realized he was holding. Synn walked through the door first and froze. 

Seated at the bar were Hannah and Tristian. Synn sucked in a breath. This was bad, she could feel it. “Looks like your sister and her husband have come for a visit.”

also available through Amazon UK // Amazon AU // Amazon CAKobo // iTunes // The Wild Rose PressBarnes and Noble // Walmart.comAdditional titles by Tena Stelter























































**This blog uses affiliate links for many of the products featured. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

Mr. Fantasy by Cambria Hebert - #blitz #adult #contemporary #romance #giveaway #XpressoTours

Mr. Fantasy  by Cambria Hebert  -now available-A Caribbean island.

A rich CEO.

A woman thrown overboard.

A delicious one-night stand.

Want to know what happens next?

Find all the answers and more between the pages

of this sizzling standalone romance—Mr. Fantasy.

Mr. Fantasy is a standalone contemporary romance novel and contains an HEA.

Add Mr. Fantasy to your Goodreads shelf

















MR. FANTASY excerpt:

“This is all just a little… unbelievable.”

“Most fantasies are.”

Realization dawned over her face. “I’m dreaming,” she whispered. “I must have blacked out in the ocean, and I’m still dreaming.”

Aaron rapped on the door and entered, carrying a large tray with a plate and bowl in the center. Nora’s eyes widened, and she lifted the covers as if she could hide behind them. Aaron pretended not to notice but set the tray over her lap and then left the room without a word.

“Eat,” I commanded.

“This is some dream,” she mused, looking over the food.

Stalking close, I leaned over the tray, making her sink back into the pillows once more. Taking her chin in my hand, I lifted it so I could stare into her good-girl face.

“This might be a fantasy, but it’s no dream. Before this night is over, you’ll learn to tell the difference.”

Before she could reply, I lowered my head, fusing my lips to hers. I felt her shock, but I didn’t pull away. Instead, I moved, caressing my lips over hers and drinking in the faint taste of salt still on her skin.

A few seconds ticked by, and I felt her relent. I knew without looking that her eyes drifted closed because the mouth beneath mine began to move.

Desire so swift cut into me like a deadly sword. Aggressively, I went at her mouth, trying to quench the thirst, trying to satiate the need she so desperately made me feel.

One kiss wasn’t going to do that, so I yanked back and put some distance between us.

Nora stared at me with giant eyes and pink, swollen lips. Slowly, she fingered her mouth, and the urge to kiss her again was swift.

Holding back, I cleared my throat. “Eat,” I demanded again, pointing to the food. “You’re gonna need all the energy you can get.”

WIN -a signed paperback and a tropical Bath & Body Works set will be given away!-

Xpresso Tour Blitz-wide giveaway (INTL) - Enter through Rafflecopter (ends 4/11/19)

a Rafflecopter giveaway
















































About Cambrian Hebert…























Cambria Hebert is an award winning, bestselling novelist of more than twenty books. She went to college for a bachelor’s degree, couldn’t pick a major, and ended up with a degree in cosmetology. So rest assured her characters will always have good hair. 

Besides writing, Cambria loves a caramel latte, staying up late, sleeping in, and watching movies. She considers math human torture and has an irrational fear of chickens (yes, chickens). You can often find her running on the treadmill (she’d rather be eating a donut), painting her toenails (because she bites her fingernails), or walking her chorkie (the real boss of the house). 

Cambria has written within the young adult and new adult genres, penning many paranormal and contemporary titles. Her favorite genre to read and write is romantic suspense. A few of her most recognized titles are: The Hashtag Series, Text, Torch, and Tattoo.

Cambria Hebert owns and operates Cambria Hebert Books, LLC.

Email // Web // Goodreads

Facebook // Twitter // Pinterest

**This blog uses affiliate links for many of the products featured. As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases. 

Interview with Mary Morgan, author of TRIAL OF A WARRIOR (Legends of the Fenian Warriors, #3) #fantasy #romance #wrpbks

Welcome to The Daisy, Mary!

Let’s learn a little more about you and your novel, TRIAL OF A WARRIOR.

When did you begin your writer’s journey?

I’ve been writing all my life, but my true journey began with my first trip to Scotland in 2000. It was an epic adventure. Sitting on a boulder in the highlands at dusk, I was surrounded by the bleating of sheep and the mists. My first series came to life within my mind that summer evening. After I returned home, I began to write in earnest.

When Borders Books closed, it forced me to step out of my comfort zone. I knew it was time to take a leap of faith and submit my own work. I had already finished one manuscript and was working on the second, so the timing was perfect.

Is this book part of a series? If so, what can we expect in the future?

Yes. It’s the third in the Legends of the Fenian Warriors. I’m finished with edits for the fourth and final book in the series called, Destiny of a Warrior. It’s about the Fae realm’s greatest hero, Aidan Kerrigan.

 

What’s your favorite quote about writing or by an author? Why is it your favorite?

"No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." Eleanor Roosevelt

There are times when words can do more harm than physical violence. I’ve chosen to keep a turtle shell around me and not let someone’s negative opinion cause me harm. If I do, then I’m giving them permission.  

 

What drives you to write?

The passion of my stories and the characters. They’re always chatting or screaming at me, depending on the character. I see them all in this Great Hall, fighting for their story to be written.

 

What’s your go-to relaxation technique?

Stepping outside into my garden. My body, mind, and spirit relax immediately.

 

Who is your favorite character in this book?

Princess Abela. She’s always the optimist and refuses to take ‘no’ for an answer. To her, there’s always a solution.

 

Do you have an established writing routine, or do you write as inspiration happens?

I’m extremely disciplined and organized. I handle all business in the morning, along with errands and exercise. The afternoon (approximately five hours) is spent in my writing cave.

 

What kind of music do you listen to?

Music is my muse! I listen to all variations of Celtic instrumental music.

 

What is the single best piece of LIFE advice you have ever received?

“Your feet are not in cement. You can always choose another direction.” My mom. :-)

 

Readers’ experiences and intake with a book vary. If you could ensure that a reader took away a certain element, be that a theme or moral or something else from your book, what would it be?

No matter how difficult the odds in my stories, I will always give you a ‘happily ever after’ at the end. In addition, redemption is possible, but only for those who seek the path.

Congratulations on the third installment of the Legends of the Fenian Warriors series. Thanks for joining me today, Mary!

A little more about Mary Morgan…

Award-winning Celtic paranormal and fantasy romance author, Mary Morgan, resides in Northern California, with her own knight in shining armor. However, during her travels to Scotland, England, and Ireland, she left a part of her soul in one of these countries and vows to return.

Mary's passion for books started at an early age along with an overactive imagination. Inspired by her love for history and ancient Celtic mythology, her tales are filled with powerful warriors, brave women, magic, and romance. It wasn't until the closure of Borders Books where Mary worked that she found her true calling by writing romance. Now, the worlds she created in her mind are coming to life within her stories.

If you enjoy history, tortured heroes, and a wee bit of magic, then time-travel within the pages of her books.

Connect

Web // Blog // Newsletter

Twitter // Facebook // Instagram

Goodreads // Pinterest

Bookbub // LinkedIn

Trial of a Warrior(Legends of the Fenian Warriors, #3)by Mary Morgan-available now-A sacrifice taken. A love worth risking.

"You met them in the Order of the Dragon Knights. Now, journey to the realm of the Fae and witness their legends!”

A warrior sentenced to die.

On trial for breaking a supreme Fae law, Fenian Warrior, Liam MacGregor has no regrets. He is prepared to accept his sentence—even if it means his death. However, freedom comes in an unexpected manner, and brings with it certain dangers as he travels through the Veil of Ages. 

A princess honor-bound to remain hidden.

Princess Abela might be a priestess and the daughter of royalty, but that doesn’t prevent her from doing the unimaginable. She sacrifices duty and honor to set free the man who captured her heart so many years ago. No matter the severity of his crimes, she cannot let Liam die.

A rescue that will bring about a war and divide a kingdom!   

In their quest to secure a treaty to forestall Liam’s death sentence, they must fight their desires for one another, as well as the Fenian Warriors sent to capture them.

Trial of a Warrior Excerpt:

Taking the end of her braid, Liam wove the soft hair around his finger. Black as ebony, the lock glistened in the soft glow of the fire. She’d tempted him beyond reason. Once, he thought there might have been a destiny, but her words of rejection slammed the door on any possibility. If she had no desire to claim him, why did Abela come to his initiation?

“Why witness my ceremony?” He let out a frustrated breath and brought the braid to his lips.

“Because I never said goodbye,” she uttered softly. Lifting her head, her eyes sought his and her cheeks colored from the heat of his gaze.

Liam was unable to look away from her beauty. “No. I recall harsh words and tears.”

“We were young—naïve.”

“Stubborn and set on a path of adventure,” he added.

“But our roads have led us to this fork, so to speak.”

Liam cupped her chin. “Was it destined?” He felt her tremble from his touch.

“I am not a seer,” she replied, darting her tongue out along her bottom lip. 

His mind screamed at him to move away. She was a princess—a priestess. But the temptation to taste her lips once more seeped into his being. Liam bent his head and placed a feather-like kiss on the corner of her mouth.

A small breathless whisper escaped her lips, “More.”

Her invitation sparked a desire that had remained sealed. Cupping the back of her head, he continued to kiss her tenderly on the eyes, nose, and forehead. As he shifted his position, Liam brought his arms around her and dared to feast on something that was forbidden. If death was his future, he wanted one more kiss to take with him.

Trial of a Warrior (Legends of the Fenian Warriors Book 3)

By Mary Morgan






also available through Barnes & Noble // iTunes // Kobo

New to the Legends of the Fenian Warriors series? Click below for book one, QUEST OF A WARRIOR…



























Additional titles by Mary Morgan























































 **This blog uses affiliate links for many of the products featured. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

SMOKE CITY by Keith Rosson #adult #magicalrealism #blitz #giveaway

Smoke Cityby Keith Rosson-available now-

Marvin Deitz has some serious problems. His mob-connected landlord is strong-arming him out of his storefront. His therapist has concerns about his stability. He’s compelled to volunteer at the local Children’s Hospital even though it breaks his heart every week.

Oh, and he’s also the guilt-ridden reincarnation of Geoffroy Thérage, the French executioner who lit Joan of Arc’s pyre in 1431. He’s just seen a woman on a Los Angeles talk show claiming to be Joan, and absolution seems closer than it’s ever been . . . but how will he find her?

When Marvin heads to Los Angeles to locate the woman who may or may not be Joan, he’s picked up hitchhiking by Mike Vale, a self-destructive alcoholic painter traveling to his ex-wife’s funeral. As they move through a California landscape populated with “smokes” (ghostly apparitions that’ve inexplicably begun appearing throughout the southwestern US), each seeks absolution in his own way.

Add to Goodreads Shelf

#WIN

Xpresso Tours Blitz-Wide Giveaway (INTL) $25 Amazon Gift Card Ends April 4

a Rafflecopter giveaway

SMOKE CITY Excerpt:

From the journals of Marvin Deitz:

 

There’s a grace inherent here. In writing things down. Like a confession signed, maybe. An admission. Nothing so lofty as a salve of the spirit, but at the very least it makes one feel a little better.

My earliest memory is of being in the marketplace in Rouen with my parents. I was probably three or four years old. I was walking with my parents amongst the stalls as fast as I could manage, amazed not at the flood of people, but at how the mass of them, the tide of them, parted for us. Because I’d thought at the time that it was me, right? My mother holding my hand, I thought it was me that made the people part ways for us.

I thought I was magic.

I did not notice at the time (but can imagine now, all too well) my mother’s downcast gaze, the way we stepped hurriedly through the leering crowd. How we did not stop to look at the untold riches of food, the bolts of fabric, the tools for sale. Things we never saw in our own village. I didn’t notice how my father gripped my mother’s arm, nearly dragging her along, her belly huge and rounded as she was pregnant with my sister at the time.

Three, four years old. I noticed the people parting for us, I remember that, but not the revulsion in their eyes, the contempt.

I would realize later, of course, just what it was the townspeople had shied away from, had leered at: my father’s coat, and the stitched image of the sword on the back.

The executioner’s mark.

And as for Joan, those decades later?

She was not loved unequivocally. She just wasn’t. At least not out loud. To do so was dangerous. But her victories, it was true, allowed some of us a rekindling of faith, a brief respite against death’s constant stutter of war and plague and occupation. The hope that God was watching over us all. The idea of it, that He believed in France’s sovereignty. That He might lift His face toward us again.

And thusly the order of her execution may as well have been passed down from the very day of her capture. The moment she was seized there outside the walls of Compiègne, it should have been clear to all that she would be put to death.

When Bishop Cauchon, toady of the English, bought her from the Burgundians after her capture, I knew the trial itself would be a hoax. A mockery. Yet I heard murmurings from serfs and landowners alike—from my darkened corner of the barroom, or on my way down the road to extract another bloody, weeping confession—and some of them hoped, prayed, that such a girl, who had served so obviously as the arm of God in the name of France, would not be allowed to die such a death. That God in His mercy would surely not allow such a thing. They prayed that Charles, their blessed King—after all Joan had done for him—would surely involve himself in the matter. That Burgundy would suddenly bend its allegiance like an arrow in the wind.

But I knew, there in the dim hallways of the heart, that men simply do what they want to do. Men do their darkness and misdeeds and later claim guidance under the banner of God’s will.

Shouldn’t I know that more than anyone? Didn’t I traffic in such matters?

She would die and they would call it divinity, because that’s what people do.

The trial was orchestrated by dozens of assessors and friars and clergymen, an ever-evolving assembly of men. The lot of them little more than castrated politicians hiding behind the guise of theology. English stormtroopers practically leaning over the benches with swords drawn throughout the entire sorry thing.

And Cauchon, ah, you should have seen him. Christ, that man. So puffed up with wine and his own righteousness and the quaking fear of an English blade suddenly tickling his balls in bed some night. Terrified, but paid well for his work, too. He would later die inexplicably in his barber’s chair, and the vengeful part of me still hopes the barber was paid to bleed him. And that it hurt terribly.

I dream of Cauchon nearly as often as I dream of Joan.

But Joan. Every avenue circles back. Everything returns to the mysterious and martyred Joan of Orléans. The young peasant girl who for a brief heartbeat of time was believed to have felt God’s lips pressed to her ear.

What of Joan of Arc?

For all of my grief and heartache and guilt, the truth is I only met her once, and that was the day I burned her alive.

Smoke City

By Keith Rosson






also available from

Barnes & Noble // Powell’s // Indiebound

A little more about Keith Rosson…

Keith Rosson is the author of the novels The Mercy of the Tide and Smoke City, and his short fiction has appeared in Cream City Review, PANK, December, The Nervous Breakdown, and more. He's been twice nominated for a Pushcart Prize and a finalist for the Birdwhistle Prize for Short Fiction. He's also an illustrator and graphic designer, with clients that include Green Day, Against Me, the Goo Goo Dolls, and others. A fierce advocate of public libraries and non-ironic adulation of the cassette tape, he can be found at keithrosson.com.

Connect

Web // Facebook

Twitter // Goodreads

Additional titles by KEITH ROSSON

 **This blog uses affiliate links for many of the products featured. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

Risky Choices #7WeekStory #Week3 #TwitterVerseExpanded

This story began as a collaborative #SevenDayStory on Twitter in March 2019. It has now been expanded to a #7WeekStory.

Risky Choices

Greg and Violet's marriage is over, but it's not what you think. It's never what you think in this exciting story of mob bosses, syrup recipes, and a ship set sail for the Orient.

Read Chapter One…Read Chapter Two…Chapter Three

Greg sat, ill at ease, watching the rain, an unlit cigarette hanging from his scowl and burner phone in one hand. Toni lay sprawled on the bed behind him, the sheet doing little to cover her curves. She was a poor substitute for who he really wanted, but he needed her, if he was going to make it out of this alive.

He contemplated his options, each successive choice driving him further to anger.

Goddamnit, why did I do this to myself? Should I go back? Vi could handle herself, surely?

He was dressed and reaching for his coat before realizing he was doing it. As he made his way out, he bumped the bathroom door pausing as it creaked. It caused Toni to stir.

“Where you going sweetie?” she called, sleepily.

“I just need some fresh air is all. Go on back to...” His voice trailed off as he heard her snoring. He nodded and closed the door with a soft *click* behind him.

“He just left.” She said. The line went dead and she put the phone away. She ran a hand through purple streaked dyed hair. She couldn’t wait to end this farce. He was terrible in bed, and his breath was always sour. She wanted to just put a bullet in his skull in some dark alley and have done with him but Daddy wanted his money back, S.H.E. was hounding her to bring Greg in for questioning, and God only knew if Mabel had her sticky fingers pulling strings from the dark. She probably did, cocaine buys a lot of friends these days.

She walked to the table and withdrew her cigarettes and lighter. Smoke haloed her face for a moment before she leaned on the wall and exhaled a curse. There was just one last piece of business to attend to before she could finally get some shut-eye. She picked her phone up, flipped through till she found the right contact, braced herself, and hit send.

Two a.m. and the street was empty, unlike his shoes. The rain was warm and heavy but he was too intent on finding that last bastion of light in the darkness. He licked his lips, savoring the drink to come. Why did the crap have to hit the fan in the rainy season? Though it didn’t stop Greg or the man following an appreciable distance behind him.

His contact told him where and when to meet, and the place looked…disreputable, great. He felt under his arm for his pistol, loosening the holster, lest he fall into a set up. There was a shit-load of cash at stake, and he didn’t want to take any chances.

He stood in the door. It was dark, dingy, and smelled like it looked. He trailed water all the way to the bar. The circles under the barkeep’s eyes, and his furrowed brow told him all he needed to know. This was a man who didn’t care for small talk. Good. He didn’t feel like talking. Greg threw a few soggy bills on the table, apologized and asked for some whiskey.

“Can I get the bottle, too?”

The barkeep grunted and brought out the bottle. Greg handed him a few more bills. Best to keep the ‘keep on your side.

“Sorry bout the, uh, mess, hoss.”

Greg grabbed the bottle and found a seat facing the door. There were only two other people drinking this time of night, only the most dedicated of alcoholics. Little threat there. He sat down took a sip, hesitated, and drained the rest. Cheap stuff. Good thing there was a lot of it. It would do the trick. He relaxed and waited…

Who will live, who will die, and who will get their money’s worth?

Return next week when Elena Hartford continues our #7WeekStory.

(Better yet, get the link delivered straight to your inbox next Saturday.)

About this week’s author, Chris Rogers…

Chris lives with his wife and three daughters in South Mississippi, where shoes are actually a thing, but he prefers to go barefoot if he can. When not treading water in a sea of estrogen, tending his beard, or playing with little plastic army men, he fancies himself an illustrator and writer. He would say he's a Jack-of-all-trades, but in reality he's chasing the proverbial squirrels.

He's been doing microfiction via Twitter for most of the last year, and the #sevendaystory prompt off and on since he discovered it.

His favorite part is coming up with something he'd want to read, using the daily prompt, sometimes failing, sometimes surprising even himself.

When asked how has the online #writingcommunity helped his craft, Chris had this to say:

 If I could sum up what social media has done to help me with writing in three words: procrastination, confidence, persistence.

Follow Chris on Twitter @cpromp

Click here to see his latest #vss365 tweets

 

Risky Choices #7WeekStory #Week3 #TwitterVerseExpanded

This story began as a collaborative #SevenDayStory on Twitter in March 2019. It has now been expanded to a #7WeekStory.

Risky Choices

Greg and Violet's marriage is over, but it's not what you think. It's never what you think in this exciting story of mob bosses, syrup recipes, and ship set sail for the Orient.

Read Chapter One…Read Chapter Two…Chapter Three

Greg sat, ill at ease, watching the rain, an unlit cigarette hanging from his scowl and burner phone in one hand. Toni lay sprawled on the bed behind him, the sheet doing little to cover her curves. She was a poor substitute for who he really wanted, but he needed her, if he was going to make it out of this alive.

He contemplated his options, each successive choice driving him further to anger.

Goddamnit, why did I do this to myself? Should I go back? Vi could handle herself, surely?

He was dressed and reaching for his coat before realizing he was doing it. As he made his way out, he bumped the bathroom door pausing as it creaked. It caused Toni to stir.

“Where you going sweetie?” she called, sleepily.

“I just need some fresh air is all. Go on back to...” His voice trailed off as he heard her snoring. He nodded and closed the door with a soft *click* behind him.

“He just left.” She said. The line went dead and she put the phone away. She ran a hand through purple streaked dyed hair. She couldn’t wait to end this farce. He was terrible in bed, and his breath was always sour. She wanted to just put a bullet in his skull in some dark alley and have done with him but Daddy wanted his money back, S.H.E. was hounding her to bring Greg in for questioning, and God only knew if Mabel had her sticky fingers pulling strings from the dark. She probably did, cocaine buys a lot of friends these days.

She walked to the table and withdrew her cigarettes and lighter. Smoke haloed her face for a moment before she leaned on the wall and exhaled a curse. There was just one last piece of business to attend to before she could finally get some shut-eye. She picked her phone up, flipped through till she found the right contact, braced herself, and hit send.

Two a.m. and the street was empty, unlike his shoes. The rain was warm and heavy but he was too intent on finding that last bastion of light in the darkness. He licked his lips, savoring the drink to come. Why did the crap have to hit the fan in the rainy season? Though it didn’t stop Greg or the man following an appreciable distance behind him.

His contact told him where and when to meet, and the place looked…disreputable, great. He felt under his arm for his pistol, loosening the holster, lest he fall into a set up. There was a shit-load of cash at stake, and he didn’t want to take any chances.

He stood in the door. It was dark, dingy, and smelled like it looked. He trailed water all the way to the bar. The circles under the barkeep’s eyes, and his furrowed brow told him all he needed to know. This was a man who didn’t care for small talk. Good. He didn’t feel like talking. Greg threw a few soggy bills on the table, apologized and asked for some whiskey.

“Can I get the bottle, too?”

The barkeep grunted and brought out the bottle. Greg handed him a few more bills. Best to keep the ‘keep on your side.

“Sorry bout the, uh, mess, hoss.”

Greg grabbed the bottle and found a seat facing the door. There were only two other people drinking this time of night, only the most dedicated of alcoholics. Little threat there. He sat down took a sip, hesitated, and drained the rest. Cheap stuff. Good thing there was a lot of it. It would do the trick. He relaxed and waited…

Who will live, who will die, and who will get their money’s worth?

Return next week when Elena Hartford continues our #7WeekStory.

(Better yet, get the link delivered straight to your inbox next Saturday.)

About this week’s author, Chris Rogers…

Chris lives with his wife and three daughters in South Mississippi, where shoes are actually a thing, but he prefers to go barefoot if he can. When not treading water in a sea of estrogen, tending his beard, or playing with little plastic army men, he fancies himself an illustrator and writer. He would say he's a Jack-of-all-trades, but in reality he's chasing the proverbial squirrels.

He's been doing microfiction via Twitter for most of the last year, and the #sevendaystory prompt off and on since he discovered it.

His favorite part is coming up with something he'd want to read, using the daily prompt, sometimes failing, sometimes surprising even himself.

When asked how has the online #writingcommunity helped his craft, Chris had this to say:

 If I could sum up what social media has done to help me with writing in three words: procrastination, confidence, persistence.

Follow Chris on Twitter @cpromp

Click here to see his latest #vss365 tweets

 

IN OTHER WORDS by Jennifer Woodhull #coverreveal #contemporary #newadult #romance #XpressoTours

Cover Reveal!



















































In Other Wordsby Jennifer Woodhull-coming April 30, 2019-

Dexter
We became close friends in college. When Sinclair returns home to Dallas after two years in New York, I introduce her to my best friend Cole. The good-looking playboy ballplayer is the perfect kind of guy for the woman I’m sure would never be interested in me…even if seeing them together breaks my heart. 

Sinclair. 
He was the nerdy PhD candidate. I was the cheerleader. We made unlikely friends. Moving back home after two years away, he looks hotter than ever. When I start dating his ballplayer best friend, things get complicated. He doesn’t see me as girlfriend material…but I can’t get him, or my feelings for him, out of my head.

Preorder Now








In Other Words

By Jennifer Woodhull








add to your Goodreads shelf

A little more about Jennifer Woodhull…

Jennifer Woodhull is based in the Southern United States, spending time in her second home of England, and traveling as often as she can. Her love of travel permeates her work, and her characters often find themselves exploring new and foreign surroundings. 

A keen observer of human behavior, Jennifer often draws inspiration from something as simple as a fleeting connection, or the glimpse of a unique trait or characteristic. Her favorite place to write is on airplanes. 

"The drone of the engine, the scores of people, all traveling to something or from something, and being disconnected from digital distractions are a combination that provide the perfect place to write," she says. "If you see a woman in seat 9F who is balancing her Macbook on her lap because it's time to close your tray table, please have patience. I'm just trying to finish one more sentence."

Connect

Web // Facebook // Twitter

Goodreads // Instagram

 Available now from Jennifer Woodhull























































 **This blog uses affiliate links for many of the products featured. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

THE HAUNTING OF HILLWOOD FARM by Kathryn Knight #romance #suspense #paranormal #prn

The Haunting of Hillwood Farmby USA TODAY Bestselling AuthorKathryn Knight

-available now-A dangerous ghost brings them together…but will they survive long enough to find happiness?

After tragedy strikes, Callie Sinclair is left with a gift she never wanted—the ability to communicate with ghosts. But when a desperate widow begs for her help, she reluctantly agrees to investigate the strange occurrences at Hillwood Farm. She quickly realizes she’s dealing with a dangerous presence beyond anything she’s ever experienced, and something else becomes equally clear—the only other living person in the house, Mrs. Turner’s handsome grandson, thinks she’s a scam artist. While she’d prefer to just ignore him, her heart beats a little faster every time he’s nearby. 

Luke Turner doesn’t believe in spirits. He’s moved back to restore the family farm, but living on the property serves a dual purpose—he can watch out for his grandmother. He’s not happy about the sudden appearance of a self-described psychic, or his inexplicable attraction to her. His initial suspicions crumble as evidence points to an actual haunting, but he’s still determined not to fall for Callie—the past has taught him it’s best to avoid relationships.

As Callie is drawn deeper into the mystery, she becomes the target of a vengeful spirit, and Luke can no longer fight his feelings for her. Unable to resist their desire, passion ignites…even as the paranormal activity escalates to a final deadly confrontation. 

**BEST ROMANTIC SUSPENSE OF 2018 at N.N. Light's Book Heaven Reviews****One of the TOP 40 PARANORMAL ROMANCES at Reedsy**

THE HAUNTING OF HILLWOOD FARM excerpt:

With a sharp pop, the light went out, plunging the room into darkness.  Callie stilled, her heartbeat filling her ears.  Something rustled behind her, and the hairs on her bare arms prickled.  She was suddenly very sure she was not alone.  A soft moan floated through the blackness.  Panic gripped her, fierce and primal, clawing at her lungs.  Did she have a weapon?  Would it even work against whatever was here? 

She struggled for air, a rancid odor filling her nostrils as she slowly inhaled.  Death.  Decay.  Shadows shifted to her left, and her gaze jerked toward the movement.  Behind the solid mass of her reflection in the mirror, the gauzy outline of a face peered over her shoulder.  Empty eye sockets stared out from gray, filmy features, the hollow black holes somehow filled with menace.

A sob gathered in her chest, clogging her throat. Please, God.Let me wake up from this nightmare. Something cold and wet brushed against her upper back, and she screamed.

The Haunting of Hillwood Farm

By Kathryn Knight






A little more about Kathryn Knight…

USA TODAY Bestselling Author Kathryn Knight writes books filled with steamy romance, dangerous secrets, and haunting mysteries. Her novels are award-winning #1 Amazon and B&N Bestsellers and RomCon Reader-Rated picks. When she's not reading or writing, Kathryn spends her time exploring abandoned places and searching for ghosts. She lives on beautiful Cape Cod with her husband, their two sons, and a number of rescued pets.

Connect

Web // Facebook //Twitter

Newsletter // Goodreads

Amazon // Bookbub

Additional titles by Kathryn Knight
























































 **This blog uses affiliate links for many of the products featured. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

Interview with Rachel Brimble, author of IF I WANT YOU #romance #suspense #wrpbks

Thanks for visiting with me on The Daisy, Rachel!

Let’s learn a little more about you and your novel If I Want You.

How did the idea for this book occur to you?

 The idea for If I Want You came to me when a young girl was abducted from a sleepy rural town in the UK. It struck such a chord with me because everyone knew everyone in this town and the shock of the residents was palpable. Evil remains hidden and out of sight in every community – how would someone react if they had been abducted as a child and then, years later, witnessed another child being taken?

 

What’s your go-to relaxation technique?

I’m an obsessive knitter and there is nothing that relaxes me more than sitting in front of the TV with my knitting. It has gotten to the point that I can’t watch TV without my needles, lol!

 

Who is your favorite character in this book?

Definitely the heroine, Tori – she’s strong, damaged and determined. Attributes I love to write about in my books. I think, as writers, it’s important that we give readers an escape and reading about a fictional character struggling to get over past hurts, heartbreak or trauma lends a reassurance that we are not alone in our struggles. Of course, as I write romance, I always have the added benefit of giving my hero and heroine their happily ever after!

 

Would you describe yourself as an introvert or extrovert?

Definitely an introvert – I have lots of friends and love to socialize, but I am most comfortable on my own, in my own space and usually working. My goal this year is to do a couple of public speaking events just because I am so terrified of them. It’s always the things we’re most afraid of holding us back. Wish me luck!

 

Do you write under any other pen names in other genres?

I only write as Rachel Brimble, but I write across three romance sub-genres – contemporary romance, romantic suspense and historical romance. I love dipping in out of all three. It keeps the writing fresh for me and, hopefully, my readers, too.

 

What is the single best piece of LIFE advice you have ever received?

It wasn’t so much given to me as I heard it while watching TV – Iyanla Vanzant was talking on Oprah’s show and she said, ‘Set it up the way you want it to be.’ Lordy, that resonated with me so much. Our lives are our own – it’s up to us what our lives look like.

 

What is the single best piece of WRITING advice you have ever received?

‘Give yourself permission to write a crappy first draft.’ I was told this about six or seven years ago and my writing enjoyment and output quadrupled overnight. The longer a writer spends going over and over the same scene or chapter, the more likely is they won’t finish the book.

I now write the first draft from beginning to end without looking back – the hard part comes in the following drafts!

 

Describe your perfect vacation.

I love to travel! It’s one of my favourite things to do – I love the sun, so going anywhere warm with a pool at my feet as I lie on my sunbed catching up on some serious reading while sipping a cocktail is always bliss. Then a quiet meal by the ocean with my husband, watching the sun go down.

 

Readers’ experiences and intake with a book vary. If you could ensure that a reader took away a certain element, be that a theme or moral or something else from your book, what would it be?

 That no matter what happens to you in life, you can go on – you can and will find the strength to embrace joy and trust someone loves you.

 

What can we expect from you in the future?

My latest release, A Rebel At Pennington’s is book 2 in my new Edwardian series, set in a department store. The series theme is female empowerment and progression.

Book 1, The Mistress of Pennington’s, was about women in business, A Rebel At Pennington’s is about women’s suffrage and book 3 (out in the Autumn) will be covering women and divorce in the early 20th century.

Thanks for joining me today, Rachel. Best of luck with If I Want You!

A little more about Rachel Brimble…

Rachel lives with her husband and their two daughters in a small town near Bath in the UK. Since 2007, she has had several novels published by small US presses, eight books published by Harlequin Superromance (Templeton Cove Stories) and four Victorian romances with eKensington/Lyrical.

In January 2018, she signed a four-book deal with Aria Fiction for a new Edwardian series set in Bath’s finest department store. The first book, The Mistress of Pennington’s released July 2018 with book two released in February 2019.

Rachel is a member of the Romantic Novelists Association and Romance Writers of America and has thousands of social media followers from all over the world.

Connect

Web // Facebook

Twitter // Instagram

 



























If I Want Youby Rachel Brimble-available now-

The monster is back - but this time his prey is all grown up…

When local journalist, Tori Peterson, fails to prevent a child abduction outside her niece’s school, her horror and guilt sparks a vow to do whatever it takes to get little Abby Brady home to her parents.

While Tori battles the vile memories of her own kidnapping as a child, she accepts the help of widowed father, Mark Bolton. As he and Tori join forces with the local police, their attraction and intimacy grows…along with their fears for Abby.

Links are uncovered between Abby’s disappearance and Tori’s kidnapping, and Tori is forced to accept the monster who held her captive is back. But this time, Tori is all grown up, and there is no way she will let him hurt another little girl.

If I Want You Excerpt:

Sensing her discomfort, he stopped and leaned against the bureau. God, did he frighten her? Surely not, or she wouldn’t be here. Or did she sense his attraction toward her and would do all she could to deflect it? He didn’t doubt for one minute his eyes gave away his appreciation whenever he looked at her.

He lifted the can to his lips. “So, what have you been thinking about?”

She tapped a peach-painted nail on the bureau. “This.”

“The bureau?”

“Principal White’s bureau.”

He frowned. “How did you know it was hers?”

“She mentioned you were working on a bureau for her when I was in the school office. I assumed this is it.”

“It is.”

“Good, because that makes it all the easier for me to give you your first assignment.”

“You want me to talk to her.”

She smiled, took a few tentative steps closer to him. “Got it in one, Watson.”

He smiled, pleased to see genuine mischief shining in her eyes. “I’m Watson?”

“Yep.”

“So that makes you Holmes. Not sure I like being anyone’s sidekick.”

Another couple of steps closer until no more than a couple of feet separated them. She met his eyes and his heart kicked. Her V-neck shirt was just the right side of professional. Yet, the way it revealed her collarbones and hugged her full breasts made him want to reach out and pull her into his arms, kiss her, taste her…

“You’re staring, Watson.”

He blinked and snapped his gaze from her breasts, rare heat hitting his face. “Sorry. You look nice.”

“Thanks.” She raised her eyebrows and nodded toward his chest. “So do you.”

He smiled. “Why don’t we go inside? It’s way too hot out here.”

If I Want You

By Rachel Brimble

also available through

Amazon UK // Barnes & NobleKobo // Google PlayAdditional titles by Rachel Brimble























































 **This blog uses affiliate links for many of the products featured. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

Interview with Devon McKay, author of LEAD ME INTO TEMPTATION (Gold Dust Brides, #1) #romance #historical #western

Thanks for visiting with me on The Daisy, Devon.

Let’s learn a little more about you and LEAD ME INTO TEMPTATION, book one of Gold Dust Brides series.

What’s your go-to relaxation technique?

Relax? What’s that?

 

What are your hopes and dreams for your writing future?

I’d like to be able to continue this journey and share my stories with readers.

 

Tell us how you came to choose the cover elements.

I saw this picture and knew it was my character, Violet.

 

Who is your favorite character in this book?

This is a tough question. I like all the characters, but I’m leaning toward Violet the most.

 

What do you do when you’re not writing?

I like to do stained glass art.

 

What kind of music do you listen to?

I’m a country music girl.

 

Would you describe yourself as an introvert or extrovert?

Definitely an introvert.

 

What is the single best piece of WRITING advice you have ever received?

Don’t get distracted by facebook, or other social media, and write.

 

Who are some of your favorite authors?

Nora Roberts, Julia Quinn, JoAnna Lindsey, Elouise James, just to name a few. I’m an avid reader with a pretty long list of favorite authors.

 

Describe your perfect vacation.

Reading a book by the ocean. Sounds incredible, doesn’t it?

 

What can we expect from you in the future?

Last Stop for Sin and Trail of Desire, Book 2 and 3 in the Gold Dust Brides Box Set.

Thanks for joining me today, Devon. Best of luck with LEAD ME INTO TEMPTATION !

I’ve read the book. Here’s my short review -

If you’re a fan of high stakes, fast moving westerns with a romantic core, you’ll love Lead Me Into Temptation! The Old West in 1851 California comes alive with gamblers, miners, and hostesses. Costuming and historical setting are thickly woven in amid the characters’ emotional roller coasters. Violet and Garrett, the heroine and hero, are intricately developed and described. Their romance is steamy and sensual but not over the top.

Violet signs on as a mail-order bride for Earl Sutherlin, a cruel and exacting man who sends his son Garrett to collect her in San Francisco from the stage. Garrett is intent on completing the delivery in order to get out of debt to his father and out from under his harsh thumb. Unfortunately for Garrett, Violet is intent on using her passage to California to find her missing father and has no intention of becoming Mrs. Sutherlin.

Gunfights, fires, stagecoach attacks, deadly injuries, and a steamy, spiraling romance—this novel has it all. This is the first book I’ve read by Devon McKay, and I can’t wait to read more!

A little more about Devon McKay…
Devon McKay writes historical and contemporary romance with a western flair. If she's not writing, she's busy with chores on her small ranch, working on a stained glass project or walking one of her three dogs through the woods. Her greatest joy is putting a smile on a readers face and hearing from fans. 

Connect

Web // Facebook // Twitter

 



























Lead Me Into Temptation (Gold Dust Brides, #1)by Devon McKay-available now-

Violet Webster is a bride on the run. Garrett Sutherlin is the cowboy determined to catch her.

Violet Webster is a bride on the run. The last thing she wants is to get married, especially to a stranger twice her age. However, agreeing to be a mail-order bride had been her only option and it paid the steep passage to San Francisco so she could locate her father. She’d find him too, if only her betrothed’s son would stay out of her way.

Garrett Sutherlin is on a mission. Delivering the striking, ebony haired beauty to his father’s doorstep not only paid off his debt, the effort would grant him freedom from the man’s condescending hold. As far as he’s concerned, Miss Webster made her own bed. 

Unfortunately, his father will be the one to lie beside her.

Lead Me Into Temptation Excerpt:

“Name’s Sutherlin.”

“Sutherlin?” A surprised gasp escaped her as hope stirred, fluttering like the wings of a butterfly in her stomach. “But you’re not…no, you can’t be.” Confused, she searched his face. “Are you my intended?”

 Violet locked onto his gaze. She saw something she couldn’t quite read in the darkened depths. Sorrow? Regret? Whatever it was, the emotion quickly faded and was replaced by a clear veil of distrust.

“No, little dove, I’m not,” he stated firmly. “Or should I call you cunning fox? Not that it matters.” He shrugged. “You are marrying my father.”

Her blood froze. Spoken out loud, the direness of her situation magnified. She was spoken for. Promised to his kin. A man twice her age, and, other than two corresponding letters, a faceless stranger. 

For a moment, she’d actually longed for the possibility of the man standing before her being her future husband. Even embraced it. And cunning fox? The words stung only because they spoke the truth.

A painful, but honest depiction. At the moment, she felt anything but trustful. Yet, how could he know of her intentions? Didn’t matter. The search for her father trumped snide insinuations and witty tag-names, regardless of how true they might be.

“Shall we continue to our quarters?” he asked, shattering her thoughts and breaking the silence.

“Do I have a choice?” she questioned sharply, more upset at herself than his request. Unable to hold her tongue, she blurted, “And in regards to your blatant questioning of my character, perhaps you are right. However, considering the fact I feel as if I’ve been caught in a trap, the word cunning is hardly accurate.”

The quick retort brought forth a low rumble of laughter and a boyish grin, softening the hard, jagged scar under his eye. In response, her pulse spiked and a cool sheen of perspiration dampened her skin.

Not easily swayed by a man’s charms, certainly not a mere smile, she questioned the reaction. With her mind reeling, she continued planning a course of escape.

Now, she had one more reason she couldn’t possibly marry into this family.

Lead Me Into Temptation (Gold Dust Brides Book 1)

By Devon McKay






Additional titles by Devon McKay

Devon McKay has titles on Kindle Unlimited. Have you signed up yet?

 **This blog uses affiliate links for many of the products featured. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.